NPI Technician
$86,008–$113,984 year
On-siteCosta Mesa, California, United States
Job Summary
Assemble, test, and troubleshoot prototypes, subassemblies, and systems including mechanical, electromechanical, and optical components. Perform system-level tests, operational verification, and functional testing to validate designs. Assist in developing assembly and manufacturing processes, supporting first article builds and design verification. Conduct detailed inspections using micrometers, calipers, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM) to identify non-conformances. Collaborate with engineering teams to set up, maintain, and improve manufacturing fixtures, tools, and test rigs. Validate incoming materials from suppliers and collect test data to inform design and process improvements. This role supports the New Product Introduction team at Anduril Industries, bridging the gap between product design and scalable production for advanced defense systems.
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in a technician role within NPI, manufacturing, or assembly environments
- Hands-on experience with mechanical, electromechanical, and optical system assembly and troubleshooting
- Strong knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) and the ability to interpret complex engineering drawings
- Experience with manufacturing processes such as CNC machining, injection molding, and precision assembly
- Proficiency with inspection tools like micrometers, calipers, and CMMs
- Familiarity with creating and utilizing test rigs, fixtures, and tooling to streamline production and testing
- Experience with first article builds, design verification, and validation processes
- Strong understanding of statistical process control (SPC) and data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab)
Desired Qualifications
- Experience in transitioning products from prototype to high-rate production
- Familiarity with MIL standards, FAA, FDA, or other regulated industry compliance requirements
- Knowledge of optical and mechanical systems, including light sources, fiber optics, and precision alignment
- Familiarity with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, NX) for reviewing designs and tooling
- Background in sensitivity analysis and functional testing of system performance
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles
Hiring someone like this?
Get your role in front of qualified candidates on Sorce.